Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s absence explained as Erik ten Hag discusses Man United team selection vs Leeds

Aaron Wan-Bissaka was not included in the Manchester United squad for their Premier League encounter against Leeds United on Wednesday evening.

Erik ten Hag has made three changes to his side that won against Crystal Palace at the weekend with Diogo Dalot, Marcel Sabitzer and Alejandro Garnacho coming into the starting XI.

Wan-Bissaka is missing the game through illness, confirmed Ten Hag.

The full-back has impressed since the World Cup and held down the position whilst his Portuguese comrade has been injured.

Jadon Sancho remains on the bench, with the manager also mentioning that he was also ill during the weekend.

Meanwhile, that allows Alejandro Garnacho to come into the side. The 18-year-old has impressed this season and most recently was involved heavily in Marcus Rashford’s goal against Palace – a goal that has been considered by Ten Hag and supporters as one of the best so far this season.

The teenager has been a dangerous weapon from the bench for the Dutchman, but also will offer an offensive threat from the off.

“He has such an impact [from the bench] to change the game. But also, he wants to be a starter, he wants to play every minute and this is a good opportunity,” said Ten Hag on the winger to MUTV.

“I think previously in a lot of games when he was in the starting eleven, he was also very good.”

Dalot has also returned to action, starting his first game in the league since before the World Cup.

“He [Dalot] played matches [after the World Cup], but then he relapsed. Now he is ready,” explained the United manager. “He trained well. He was involved in group training the last few days. I think he’s ready to start.”

Sabitzer makes his full debut for the club after appearing from the bench on the weekend and has impressed his colleagues and manager since joining United last week.

Ten Hag added: “He [Sabitzer] is experienced and understands football and the way we want to play. So I’m confident we have a good midfield today and a good team today.”